Help us understand how sleep protects the brain.
Sleep is essential for memory, learning, and overall brain health.
Recent scientific discoveries suggest that the brain becomes particularly active during sleep in clearing waste products that naturally accumulate during the day. When this process is impaired, it may contribute to the development of neurodegenerative diseases such as Alzheimer’s disease.
The BrainSomnia study aims to better understand how blood vessel activity during sleep influences this natural brain-cleaning process.
By taking part, you will help researchers develop new approaches for the early detection and prevention of brain diseases
Millions of people experience sleep disorders, and these disorders are associated with an increased risk of cognitive decline and dementia later in life.
Scientists still do not fully understand:
Your participation will help answer these important questions.
We are currently recruiting two groups of volunteers.
Adults aged 20–40 years.
This pilot study involves sleep monitoring only.
Adults aged 65–70 years.
Participants should be retired for more than one year, with no diagnosed sleep disorder.
Measures the electrical activity of your brain to identify different sleep stages.
Monitors your breathing patterns and blood oxygen levels during sleep.
Tracks changes in heart activity while you sleep.
Measures natural changes in blood volume in the outer regions of the brain using an optical device.
Advanced brain imaging helps us assess brain structure, vascular health, and early biological changes associated with ageing and neurodegenerative diseases.
Provides detailed images of brain structure and vascular health.
Detects biological markers associated with brain ageing and neurodegenerative diseases.
Blood samples provide valuable information about biological processes linked to brain health and ageing.
Measures proteins linked to the early stages of neurodegenerative diseases.
Assesses biological signals associated with inflammation in the body.
Provides information about the health of the cardiovascular system.
Studies tiny particles released by brain cells that may carry important biological information.
Simple cognitive tests help us evaluate different aspects of thinking and memory.
Evaluates the ability to learn and recall information.
Measures the ability to focus and process information efficiently.
Assesses how quickly the brain responds to simple tasks.
Evaluates planning, reasoning, and problem-solving abilities.
By participating, you will:
Although participation may not provide a direct medical benefit to you, your contribution could help improve care for future generations.
We would be delighted to answer your questions.
